Futsal hopefuls discover World Cup fate

Held in Medellin, one of the tournament’s three host cities, the event saw hosts Colombia drawn into Group A, with Portugal, Uzbekistan and Panama.The hosts will kick off their campaign against Portugal on the opening day of the competition on 10 September. Elsewhere, five-time winners Brazil will begin their title defence on 11 September against Ukraine in Group D, which also features Australia and debutants Mozambique.Meanwhile 2016 OFC Futsal Champions Solomon Islands, who will contest their third consecutive World Cup, will face tough opponents in sixth-ranked Argentina and ninth-ranked Kazakhstan in Group E.The Kurukuru, ranked number 43 in the world, will kick off their tournament against Costa Rica, who sit in 19th place on the FIFA Futsal rankings, on 12 September.Two-time winners Spain will be in action on the same day against Asian powerhouse Iran in Group F, a pool that also involves African champions Morocco and Azerbaijan.Ramon Jesurun, President of the Colombian Football Federation said his county will welcome all the teams with open arms. “We have three cities that will be spectacular hosts,” he said.“We also have an absolute desire to build further upon what this sport has accomplished at world level. “Futsal produces exquisite quality and technique resulting in magic, and is a show that we will enjoy from beginning to end.”FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he is looking forward to the start of the tournament.“I personally cannot wait to be back here in a few months to watch the games.”Full DrawGROUP AColombia Portugal Uzbekistan Panama GROUPThailand Russia Cuba Egypt